NetApp throws in free Flash Cache

NetApp is providing 512GB – not 512MB – of free Flash Cache on the FAS6240 and 6280 arrays and the V6240 and 6280 controllers.

The V Series is a detached FAS controller that can be used to virtualise third-party storage arrays and present them as NetApp storage.

The Flash Cache stores frequently accessed or hot data in solid state storage in the controller, and read access to that data is up to 10 times faster. NetApp claims it reduces the cost of storage for standard applications by up to 50 per cent. The storage array can use fewer, larger and cheaper disk drives than before.

Alexander Wallner, NetApp's VP in Germany, said NetApp was the first array manufacturer to do this as a standard feature. He said he thinks it is only a matter of time before others do it too. ®